Filled can weighing and sorting apparatus



Nov. 9, 1937. w. R. SMITH 2,098,260

FILLED CAN WEGHING AND SORTING APPARATUS Filed Dec. v27, 1953 5 Sheets-Sheet l INVENTOR mi@ my@ a m )S ATTORNEY NOW 9, 1937. w. R. SMITH FILLED CAN WEIGHING AND SORTING APPARATUS 5 Sheets-Sheet 2 i INVENTOR www@ ATTORNEYS BYE e Filed Dec. 27, 1933 Non 9*, E937. w, R. sMTif-f FLLED CAN WEIGHING AND SORTING PPAHATUS Filed Deo. 2'?, 1933 5 SheecsMShee 3 J4..." I M BY Q V 4 ATTO 'En v Nov- 9, 1937. w. R. sharm FILLED CAN WEIGHING AND SORTING FPRTUS Filed Dec. 27, 1935 5 Shees-Sheet 4 iNvENmR ATT@ NOV. 9, H937. w, R. SM1-nq 2,098,260

FILLED CAN WEIGHING AND SORTING APPARATUS INVENTOR WXZZJ-M Patented Nov. 9, 1937 UNITED STATES PATENT OFFICE FILLED CAN WEIGHING AND SORTING APPARATUS William Ross Smith, Portland, Oreg., assignor to American Can Company, New York, N. Y., a y corporation of New Jersey Application December 27, 1933, Serial No. 704,194

19 Claims. (Cl. 209-121) l spilling, the cans after Weighing being automatiwhich receives cans in a continuous manner and 5 cally sorted and segregated, in accordance with a Without pause Weighs the same, after which all of predetermined weight range, into different disthe cans are passed through a sorting mechacharge lanes of a discharge table. nism which automatically discharges them in i In the canning of many products a relatively different positions so that cans of the same range i uniform Weight in individual cansis highly deof Weight are collected and these are separated l l sirable and for filled cans containing liquids such from those of a different Weight range.

` as the small fruits (strawberries, raspberries, etc., A further object 0f the inVentiOn iS the PrOVipacked in syrup) extreme care is required in sion of a weighing machine of the character dehandling these open top lled cans during the scribed in which the cans are all received, mainweighing and sorting so as to avoid spilling. tained and discharged in one level except during yl The present invention contemplates the rapid the actual Weighing Operaticn during Which brief Weighing and sorting of this difficult kind as well space the sorting mechanism is influenced so that as other kinds of filled cans, the machine emthe Sorting by Weight Subsequently takes piace bodying the invention being designed and opdU-ring the discharge 0f the canserated to continuously and evenly function with Another Object 0f the inVentiOn iS the DI'OVi- 20 a minimum of abrupt or irregular movements or SiOn 0f a Weighing machine utilizing a Series 0f Change 0f movements to the end that the eens scale balances which are primarily balanced for l being weighed will not be spilled yet will be ac- Weighing maximum limit Cans and are then furl curately separated into their respective weight ther and independenti)T balanced t0 DI'OVide OI i ranges in an expeditious manner. other predetermined can weights less than maxl- Furthermore, the invention contemplates in its mum, thiS feature prOViding a Wide range 0f preferred embodiment the bringing of the cans Weight differences while permitting rapid changafter weighing into convenient positions, segreing OVei t0 adapt the machine t0 different Weight gated into normal, light and heavy Weight ranges TiinS 0f canS- so that more of the product can be placed inte A still further object of the invention is the those of insunieient werent or some of the prodprovision of change part adjustment for dineruct can be removed from those cans containing ent can diameters in a Weighing and SOiting mamore than the desired amount of product. Chine 0f the Character deScIibedd- In many canneries it is necessary te run Numerous other objects and advantages of the great variety of products and different weights invention will be apparent as it is better Imderthrough the weighing operation in a short space Stood from the OiiOWing description, Which, of time and each weighing operation may intaken in connection With the accompanying volve only a relatively small quantity of cans of drawings, discloses a preferred embodiment a given size or product and in such cases it then thclOf-A becomes necessary to change over the Weighing Referring t0 the drawings! 40 machine being used, if this can be done, in order Figure 1 is a Plan View 0f a Weighing and S01' tto adapt it for use on cans of other sizes and ing machine embodyingthe present invention; other products having diierent weights, it being Fig' 2 is a' longf'udinal Seftmn, taken substa'n' obviously impractical and far too expensive to man? aloflg the hue 2,' 2 m F15' l; have a separate size machine for each weight. Flg .3.15 a' plan sctlonal .deta of certain of 45 Such changing over in the ordinary weighing we drlvmg mechiamsm as.v1ewed from a plane i indicated by the line 3 3 1n Fig. 2; machmes entails great expense and great loss of time as delicate adjustments of balance scale Fig' 4 1S an enlarged plan Vlew of the Welghlng and discharge end of the machine disclosed mts are necessary' in Fig. 1, parts being broken back; 50

The prsent 'mventlon contemplates faplfi and Fig. 5 is a front elevation of one of the weighsimple weight changes on each scale unit without ing scale units as Viewed from a position indialtering the delicate balance mechanism so that cated by the une 5 5 in Fig 4, parts being brodifferent sorting is quickly provided for these ken back; new conditions and so that each scale unit is as Fig. 6 is an enlarged transverse sectional view 55 The present invention relates to Weighing and sorting machines and has particular reference to the Weighing'and sorting of iilled open top cans while conveying them continuously and without every other unit, thus maintaining uniform weighing. 1

An object of the invention is the provision of a Weighing machine which is fully automatic and taken substantially along the line ti-ii in Fig. 1;

Fig. 'Z is a fragmentary sectional detail of one of the scale counter-balances as viewed along the line f7- ll in Fig. 5;

Fig. 8' is a further ydetail of the same being taken substantially along the line t-ti in Fig. 6;

Fig. 9 is an elevation of a part of the weighing section of the machine as it would loolr when viewed from a position indicated by the line @--9 in Fig. 4, parts being broken back;

Fig. lil is a sectional detail taken substantially along the line iii-l@ in Fig. 6;

Fig. 11 is a fragmentary plan sectional view of certain of the weighing units as taken substantially along the broken line l-ili in Fig. 9;

Fig. 12 is a transverse sectional detail as viewed along the line lil-ii? in Fig. 9;

Fig. 13 is a transverse sectional view taken substantially along the broken line fl--Ili in Fig. 4; and I v Figs. 14 and 15 are sectional details taken respectively along the lines ill-M and i-Liii in Fig. 4.

The apparatus embodying the present invention comprises a continuously moving conveyor on which are mounted a series of weighing scale balance units.. .411 illled can to be weighed is brought into the machine on a continuously moving horizontal chain which carries the cans over a feed table and :passes them through a timing device. rli'his timing device brings each individual can into proper time relation to the other operations of the machine. A timed can is then inserted into a scale unit by a rotating star member.

The scale unit with its contained can passes around its path of travel with the moving conveyor, this path being straight on the sides and arcuate at the ends and, during a large part of the travel, the scale pan of the unit with its can is held accurately in (a horizontal plane and protected against irregular movement or sudden jar.

the. can with its scale unit passes into weighing position and the unit is then released from its held condition whereupon Weighing oi the can is effected. The position of the' scale pan is vertically altered if the can contents are under or over a desired range of weight and this change in position is utilized to perform certain results.

The moving weighed can with its scale unit is then passed through a detector unit after which can and scale unit are again restored to the plane of travel as before. The advancing can is then removed from its `scale pan and further conveyed `in a sinuous path through star-wheels and a turret and is iinally discharged onto a discharge table. i

The actuation of certain parts of the detector unit through which the scale unit passed is now .made manifest as the can approaches its discharge position. Certain of the discharge units carried in the turret into which the can is positioned operate to discharge the can and selectively place it upon one of three conveyors of the discharge table in accordance with its determined weight. n

All of the normal weight cans are thus segregated and brought upon the same conveyor and in like manner all of the light and all of the heavy Weight cans are similarly disposed of on their respective conveyors. During the passage of the weighed cans over the discharge table and while ln one position of its straight path of travel l aoeaaco on their conveyors opportunity is given to an operator or packery to adjust the deciency or the excess .of product in the light and over weightv and in the opposite direction as a. discharge or patching table 25.

' The various mechanical features of the machine will rst be group-ed or classified according to the function they perform as to the iilled and open top cans and then will be subsequently described in detail. l

- Filled cans El are carried into the machine and to the scale units along the table section 2li on a suitable conveyor chain 2d which not only exout the entire length of the machine and into the discharge table section 25 as shown in Fig. l. Atiming device di illustrated in Figs. 1 and 6 operates upon the moving cans on the conveyor @t and times eachy individual can so that its travel is brought into synchronism with the other operating parts of the weighing machine.

Each -scale unit, indicated generally by the numeral 32 and shown in detail in Figs. 4, 5 and 6, is carried on a conveyor 33 which moves over the table 23 and along a combined straight and arcuate path. A feed-in star (Figs. l and 6) is used for transferring the timed can from the conveyor 2t into the scale pan of a scale unit 32.

At one position in its straight path of travel the can within its scale unit is subjected to the weighing operation effected by the scale unit in cooperation with weight devices designated by the numeral 36 and shown in detail in Figs. 4, 9, 1l and 12. Following this weighing the travelling scale pan and can remain in a balanced condition or are carried in a higher or lower plane in accordance with its weight. While in such a plane it passes directly into the zone of a detector unit 3l disclosed in detail in Figs. 6, 9 and 10.

Certain detector controls til of the unit 3l are set accordingly and the can and its scale unit continues on its path of travel. The detector controls 38 in. turn actuate elements in a detector trip unit il disclosed in some detail in Figs.

4, 9, 14 and'15. This unit provides for the proper discharge of the weighed can when it reaches the discharge station.

tends over the feed table section but also through- The can as soon as it passes the detector unit is removed from its scale pan and then passes throughstarwheels fit, 45 (Figs. 1 and 4) which advance it without interruption in its sinuous path, the starwheel t5 positioning the can into the turret of a distributing mechanism dii shown in det-ail in Figs. 4 and 13.

The discharge of the can from the turret is made at one of three positions on the discharge or patching table t5 and in this manner is sorted as to weight range on the conveyor 2t if of normal weight, on an adjacent conveyor chain ill if overweight or on a chain tt operating alongside if under or light weight.

It is believed that this brief classiiication lof parts as to their functions on the can will assist in a better understanding of the description that associated with each class of parts will be more thoroughly considered in their individual operation as Well as in their relations to other parts.

Filled can feed The conveyor chain 28 (Figs. 1 and 6) at the entrance end of the feed table 24 operates over an idler sprocket 5| mounted ona stub shaft 52 carried in brackets 53 depending from the feed table 24. The feed table 24, the central table 23 and the discharge table 25 are all grooved at 54 to form a continuous path for the upper run of Ithe chain. It will be understood that there is no structural division `between the three tables, a division being indicated only for the purpose of description.

Chain 28 may be driven in any suitable manner, the forward end of the chain being entirely removed in the present disclosure. Guide rails 55, 56 are mounted on the feed table 24 and these retain the cans in a straight path of travel. The guide rails terminate at their forward ends just short of the position of transfer of the can from the conveyor chain.

Timing The conveyed can 21 upon passing the forward end of the guide rail 55 moves into the zone of the timing device 3|. This device comprises a tapered screw 6i which is smaller at the end adjacent to the guide rail 55 but uniformly increases in diameter toward its opposite or forward end. This screw is mounted on a shaft 62 which is positioned at an angle to the horizontal and is continuously rotated so that a spiral thread 63 formed on the screw body engages and spaces the advancing can from the other cans bringing it into proper time with operations of the machine.

Shaft 62 is journaled at its forward and raised end in a lug 64 formed in a bracket 65 which is mounted upon and secured to the feed table 24. The opposite end of the shaft is carried in a lug 66 also formed in the bracket 65. The shaft 62 carries a bevel pinion 61 which meshes with la bevel gear 68 secured to the upper end of a vertical shaft 68 journaled' at its top end in a bearing 1| formed in the bracket 65 and at its lower end in a bearing`12 formed in the front wall of feed table 24.

The shaft 68 carries a pinion 13 at its lower end which meshes with a bevel gear 14 secured to one end of a horizontal shaft 15 which is journaled in a bearing 16 formed in the frame 2| and in a bearing 11 formed on the lower end of a depending bracket 18 which projects down from and is an integral part of the frame table 23.

The shaft 15 also carries a bevel gear 8| which meshes with a similar gear 82 secured to a horizontal shaft 83. This shaft 83 extends substantially the entire length of the table 23 (see Fig. 2) and is journaled in a. bearing 84 formed in the frame leg 22 and in a bearing 85`formed on a bracket 86 depending from the table 23.

Shaft 83 also carries a bevel gear 81 which meshes with a pinion 88 secured to the lower end of a vertical shaft 88 which extends up and above the table 23. The lower en d of the shaft 88 is journaled in a bearing 8| formed in the table and its upper end in a bearing 82 carried in a gear housing 83 (Figs. 1 and 2) which is preferably an integral part of a frame 84 extending upwardly from and carried on the table 23.

The upper end of the shaft 88 where it extends into the housing 83 carries a bevel gear 85 which meshes with and is rotated by a pinion 86 carried v on a horizontal drive shaft 81.

Shaft 81 is journaled in a bearing 88 formed in the gear housing 83 and one end extends outside of the housing where it carries a belt pulley 89. Driving power for operating substantially all of the parts of the weighing machine may be applied to the belt pulley 89 in any suitable manner as by a belt.

Rotation of the drive shaft through the train of gears, shafts, etc., which have just been described, constantly rotates the timing screw 6| so that the cans are brought into proper timed position while still being carried forward on the conveyor chain 28. The removal of the cans by the starwheel 35 from the conveyor 28 takes place adjacent the large end'of the screw thread 63 and each can is deposited into its scale unit 32 as the latter moves tangentially to the starwheel on the side opposite to the timing screw. The cans are held in the starwheel by a curved guide rail |0| (Figs. la and 6) which is secured to or may be an integral part of the bracket 65.

The starwheel 35 is mounted upon the upper end of a `vertical shaft |04 which is journaled in a bearing |05 formed in the frame table 23. The lower end of the shaft |04 carries a bevel gear pinion |06 which meshes with and is driven by a gear |01 carried on a short horizontal shaft |08.

Shaft |08 is journaled in a bearing |08 formed in a bracket depending from the frame table 23. 'I'he shaft |08 also carries a sprocket ||2 over which operates a chain I3 which also passes over and is driven by a sprocket 4 carried von the shaft 15. In this mannery the rotation of the shaft 15 is communicated to the shaft |04 and the starwheel 35 is accordingly moved to effect the transfer of the cans from the conveyor chain 28 to the scale units 32.

Scale unit and conveyor Each scale unit 32 comprises a scale pan |2| (Figs. 1, 4, 5 and 6) which extends horizontally and at one side and as an integral part of an arm |22 which mergesinto a top arm |23. The arm |23 is formed with an enlarged boss section |24 which provides for the pivotal support of the scale pan.

A scale beam |3| is associated with each of the scale pans and its end forward of a pivotal support is formed into spaced, parallel arms |32 which extend on opposite sides of the faces of the f boss |24. Each varm at its forward end carries a pointed setscrew |33 threadedly engaged therein and the pointed ends of the screws extend into counterbores |34 formed in the opposite faces of the boss |24. This provides an anti-friction connection between the beam |3| and the pan arm |23.

Each arm |23 also carries a post |35 which extends up and in a vertical line with the center of gravity of the pan unit and with the center of gravity of a positioned filled can 21 on the scale pan |2|. Scale weights |36 of different sizes and weights are provided for the weighing operations under'certain conditions and these when used are adapted to be carried on the post |35 (Fig. 6). By placing these posts over the center of gravity, the scale pan is less affected by a taking off or a putting on of scale weights and its balance is more nearly maintained against swinging.

The total weight of the scale pan |2| with its arms 22, |23 plus the desired normal weight of a filled can being weighed, that is the total weight suspended from the beam I3 is preferably maintained constant. To do this, since the weightof panY arms, etc., remains the same, any change of the desired normal can weight must be accompanied by a compensating element to make up the dierence in desired weight.

The different size scale weights are Aused for this compensation. Accordingly when maximum normal weight cans are being run through the apparatus the weights itt are not used, t any desired weight range less than the maxim requires certain of the weights to bring the total up to the maintained constant referred to.

'lo further illustrate by way of a concrete example assuming twenty two ounces as the maximum normal weight can, such a can is passed through the machine without the use of any scale weights H36 on the posts 05:35. For a can less than the maximum of 22 ounces, `for example, ainormal weight can of 16 ounces, the constant gross weight referred to of can and scale pan is maintained by adding scale weights litt totaling 6 ounces on the post H35 of each scale unit Si ln like manner any weight range between limits is quickly obtained in the machine without altering any adjustments or disturbing any delicate balances. rlfhis is what is meant by changing over the weighing machine for a different weight run of cans.

rI'he beam lil (Figs. 4 and 6) of each scale unit is pivotally mounted on suitable anti-friction knife edge Vpivots Ml which rest in Seats i3d carried in upper spaced ends lilll of a support bracket Ml. Each bracket lill is formed with spaced depending lower legs M52 which extend along thesides of its associated scale pan arm l2?. Thelower ends-of these legs are enlarged and are provided with elongated slots M3 (Figs. 5 and 6) Each scale pan arm lf2 carries a horizontal pin Mill which extends out on either side', its ends projecting through the elongated slots M3 of the bracket legs. This construction provides a more controlled weighing unit and prevents undue swinging of the scale pan when a 'can is being placed upon it or during removal of a can from the pan but does not interfere with its accurate weighing functions.

Each bracket lill is secured to a right angled block M5 by bolts and each block constitutes an elementin the conveyor 33. The blocks M5 rest upon and move over a trackway Mit formed in the table 2li. This is a smooth track and extends all of the way around the table 23 and the feet of the blocks Mit are sufficiently large to form a substantial support so that the scale units are advanced throughout their path of travel Without undue jarring or sudden change of movement.

A slot lill (Figs. l, 4 and 6) is cut in the top of the table 23 and extends along the center of the track Mit and this slot is formed with accurately finished side walls which extend in parallel spaced straight portions and concentric arcuate end portions and determine the path of travel of the can units 32. Each block M5 carries a pair of shouldered bolts ibi which are threadedly secured in the block and are held in a clamped position by lock nuts itt.

Each bolt supports a roller itil formed with a conical lower end ltd, this roller fitting nicely within the track slotl Mill being freely movable therein, the head of each bolt lill holding its loller up in the slot.

Bolts lill in adjacent blocks Mid are loosely connected by links 055 and link, block and bolt provide the connecting elements for the conveyor' 33. The rollers i553 accurately guide the conveyor unit in an even motion as it is moved around its path of travel and also form the spacedengaging elements for the teeth of the drive sprockets over which the conveyor operates. This will be fully explained in the pages to follow.

Each balance beam Hdl extends back of its knife edge support in a single T-.shaped arm lll (Figs. 6, 7 and 8) on the top of which a balance or counterweight d is carried. This Weight is adjustable as to its position on the beam and when the exact balance is obtained is securely locked in place. The balancing of each scale beam by the weight 65e is made to obtain the desired setting for the device to correctly balance the constant full weight of can, scale pan and other parts previously mentioned. Provision is made for a micrometer adjustment.

The beam itl adjacent its knife edge support is formed with an upwardly extending nger l 59 which is slotted on top for the reception of a reduced section of a head itl of an adjusting screw ft2. This construction allows for free turning of the screw but prevents longitudinal movement. The rear end of the screw it?. threadedly engages the conuterweight l5@ and turning of the screw moves the weight nearer to or farther from the balance center of the scale beam. The head itl may be knurled to facilitate turning of the screw.

When in adjusted position the weight Heli is clamped on to the beam arm l5?! and this is accomplshed by a clamp rod M53 which extends loosely through the counterweight along one side. This rod has a hooked end Mill which extends under the beam arm lbf, its end passing up into the, weight. A thumb nut 'itil threadedly engaging the upper end of the rod and resting against the top of the counterweight, when properly turned, pulls the rod up into clamping position locking the counterweight in its adjusted position.

The counterweight is also formedvwith a horizontally extending chamberl itt, closed at one end by a screw plug itil, in which mercury may be enclosed to partially fill the chamber. This provides a shiftable weight element, the mercury tending to quickly flow from one end to the other of the chamber upon the slightest tilting of the beam. The body of mercury, it will be observed, is placed' high up and above the knife edge pivotal support lill? as this increases its sensitiveness and also the rapidity at which the shifting of the weight center takes place when the beam does start the tilt under an over or an underweight can.

The conveyor chain 3d operates over a pair of sprockets lll, lll? (Fig. 2) the former being mounted on and driven with the shaft 89 above its bearing lll. Sprocket il? is mounted on a vertical shaft W5 which below the table 23 is journaled in a bearing il@ formed as a part of the table. rFhis shaft llii carries the detector trip unit di and is also positively rotated by geared connection with the shaft tid. For this purpose the shaft i carries a bevel gear lll which meshes with a pinion l 'it mounted on and rotated by the shaft tt. In this manner both of the sprockets lll, lli? are positively driven in unison.

The table 23 extends up, centrally of the vertical shafts titl, llllfi, as a support section it@ which carries an auxiliary frame ft2. This frame extends between the vertical shafts and is formed at one end with a boss itil where it provides a support for the rotating shaft t9 and at the other end with a sleeve iM in which the upper end of the shaft llt is journaled. i

The holding of a balance beam |3| throughout a large part of the travel of the conveyor 33, which has already been suggested, is accomplished by means of a cam track |86 (Figs. 2, 6 and 9) formed in the peripheral Wall of the auxiliary frame |82. Each beam arm |51 is formed with a knob end |81 which extends into and rides in the slot |86. On the front side of the machine, that is adjacent the conveyor 28, the cam track is disposed at an upper level and this is also true at the ends, that is, around the arcuate sections of the cam track. This higher cam section holds a scale pan |2| at its lowest level at which level it receives a can presented by the starwheel 35.

Each scale unit 32 also carries a can mold |88 (Figs. 5 and 6) which is removably .secured to its associated arm |22 by a screw |89. This mold contines the can in an exact aligned position on the scale pan |2| and prevents lateral shifting while maintaining the center of gravity of the scale unit.

The mold |88 is a change part and when a different diameter of can is to be run through the machine the mold on each scale unit is changed so that the proper diameter mold is provided. All of the molds are the same weight and this chang-` ing of a mold for a change in diameter of the can in no way affects the balance of the scale units.

Filled am weighing After a can has been carried around one end of its arcuate track and asl its scale unit begins to travel on the straight path at the rear of the machine it passes into position for weighing. In

coming into weighing position,l the scale pan is rst brought up -so that its beam arm |51 is horizontal. This raising of the scale pan is brought about as its knob end passes down an inclined section |9| (Fig. 9) of the cam track |86.

The scale beam |51 is now held in its horizontal position while its knob end |81 passes into an intermediate horizontal cam slot section |92. This cam section |92 is suficiently long to permit steadying of the scale unit while it continues its advance and thus prepares the unit for its weighing operation while the beam end |81 comes under the iniluence of the weighing devices 36.

At the end of the cam track section |92 the lower wall of the'cam groove dips down in an inclined track wall |93 but the upper wall of the cam groove |92 is continued in the same horizontal plane as the under surface of three weighted balance gates |94, |95 and |96. Each Igate is an integral part of a lever arm |91 (Figs. 4, 9 and 12) which extends at right angles and which is pivoted on a horizontal rod |98 carried in bearing lugs |99 mounted on and extending up as an integral part of the auxiliary frame |82.

Each lever arm |91 beyond its pivot mounting on the rod |98 carries an adjustable counter.

balance 20| which may be changed in position on the arm and after adjustment is locked by a setscrew 202. By means of this counterbalance a greater or lesser; resistance against lifting of the gate may be imposed as desired.

The first gate .|94 (Fig. 9) normally rests with its lower face in horizontal alignment with the upper wall of the cam groove |92, the frame |82 at the end of the groove being extended in a projection 205 which provides a support for the first gate. The gate is notched at 206 where it engages this projection 205-so that the lower surface of the gate presents a smooth and uninterrupted surface.

In like manner the iirst gate |94 supports the adjacent or middle gate |95 and for this purpose is formed with a projection 201 on which the second gate normally rests, the latter being notched at 208 for the same purpose. In like manner the second gate |95 is formed with a projection 209 and a notched part 2| of the third gate |96 normally receives the projection of its adjacent gate. A smooth and uninterrupted surface along the three gates is thus obtained and it is along this surface that the knob end |81 of a scalebeam arm |51 passes. Y

In the event that a can is light or under weight on a scale pan |2| of the unit 32 which comes into weighing position when the knob end |81 leaves the cam track section |92, the counterweight |58 of the balance beam overbalances the load on the scale pan and associated parts and this lowers the beam arm |51. The mercury in the counterweight |58 thereupon quickly ilows away from the pivotal center of the beam and helps to force the knob end |81 down against the inclined cam track |93.

In Fig. 9 the second knob end |81 from the right exemplifies such a .light weight can and shows the knob end riding down on the cam surface |93. As such a beam arm passes under but clears the weighted gates |94, |95, |96 its knob end has no effect upon the gates. As the knob end reaches the end of the inclined cam surface |93 it is in its lowest position and in that position moves on through the detector unit 31.

In the event that a can is over weight the knob end |81 upon leaving the upper wall of the cam track |92 rides along the lower surface of the first weighted gate |94. 'If the over Weight is sufficient to counterbalance the combined weights .of the three gates as soon as the knob end clears the projection 205 it will raise these gates, the inter-rconnections 201, 208 and 209, 2| locking the gates together. This provision is made so that an exceptionally heavy can will not violently throw the weight devices out of position but will permit an easy movement as the scale beam i come the combined resistance oi the three gates the knob end |81 passes along the lower surface of the first gate |94 which remains in position. If this over weight, however, is suilicient to lift the two gates |95, |96 these gates move up as soon as the knob end leaves theprojection 201 of the rst gate and passes into engagement with the second gate.

A still lighter can but one which is.sti1l over the weight range for a normal can will be insucient to lift the two gates |95, |96 but may lift one gate. In such an event no movement of the scale beam will take place until after its knob end |81 has cleared the projection 209 of the second gate and comes into engagement with the third gate |96. For this l-ast condition see Figs. 9 and 12 which show the third gate |96 in its raised position, all overweight cans lifting this gate in the weighing operation.

In the two former cases, that is, a can of excessive weight sumcient to raise the three gates |94, |95, |96 and in the next lighter but over weight can sufficient to raise the gates H95, 92 each gate, as it is cleared by the knob end of the beam, falls back intov position. This gate movement, however, does notdisturb the scale beam passing under the gates.

It will be observed by reference to Fig. 9 that the interval between adjacent scale beams l51 is such that a knob end l81 of one beam is coming into position under the rst gate as the knob end of the scale unit ahead is leaving the third gate. In the event the two adjacent scale beams have cans which are over weight the maximum amount the following beam will pass Vunder the first gate H94 before the forward beam end has released the third gate l95 and in this condition the following scale unit will be acted upon by the first andI second gates only.

In any event this construction insures an even shifting of the scale units in the case of over weight cans. This `construction also permits immediate and successive return of the balance gates and provides a stabilizing iniiuence proportional to the amount of over weight in the heavy weight filled cans. With all of the cans heavier th-an the normal weight range, the knob end of the beam arm l51 associated therewith remains in raised position and in such position moves into the detector unit 31.

In the event that the can upon the scale beam is within the normal range of weight so that its balance beam l3l is maintained in a horizontal position its knob end B81 rides along under the weight devices 36 without operating any of the gates and so passes into the detector unit 31 in a middle horizontal position. The operation of the unit 31 Will be fully described but first the further passage of the cans -and the beam ends will be briefly noted.

All of the knob ends ll after passing through the detector unit 31' and still within their plane positions above, in the middle, or below, are again brought into the upper cam track level i8@ and are thence moved toward the discharge end of the machine at this level which it Will be remembered was the receiving level. 'I'he normal and the light Weight cam units after passing the detector unit 21 ride upon an inclined cam track 219 which joins with the widened cam groove beyond the detector unit and this merges into the upper level of the cam groove 096.

Detector unit and setting of detector controls The detector unit comprises a pair of swinging members one of which is moved when a light or under weight can passes with its beam arm knob end |21 in the lower part ofthe widened cam track. The other swinging member is actuated when an over weight can is passing with its beam arm knob end in the upper part of the cam groove. Passing normal weight cans with their beam-knobs in the central or middle track have no effect at all upon the swinging gate members or upon the detector control unit 3l.

One of the swinging members comprises a long arm 225 (Figs. 9 and l1) which extends down in a recess 225 formed in the auxiliary frame N32. The arm 225 carries a shoe 221 the ends of which are bent into inclined end walls 223. The arm 225 is pivotally swung from a horizontal rod 229 which is held in a lug 29E formed on the side of a column 232 which extends up from the auxiliary frame l92. The opposite end of the rod 229 is held in a lug 233 formed in the sleeve i8@ of the auxiliary frame 92.

When a light or under weight can unit moves aooaaco past the shoe 221 its beam end l 81 engages first the forwardinclined wall 228 of the shoe and thence as the knob end further advances it forces the shoe further into the recess 226. this action swinging the arm 225 on its rod ,229.

The second of the'swinging members comprises a short arm 235 which is positioned along side of the arm 225 and is also swungon the rod 229. 'Ihis arm carries a shoe 236 at its bottom end which also extends into the recess 226 and is located directly above the shoe 221. The shoe 236 is also formed with inclined end wa1ls'231 and as an over weight can is moved past the swinging members its beam arm |51 engages rst the forward inclined wall 231 and then, moving along the shoe, swings it back and rocks the arm 235 on the rod 229. A swinging of either of the arms 225, 235 affects the detector control 38 associated therewith.

The light can arm 225 is formed with a projection 255 (Figs. 6 and 9) which is connected by a. link 256 to an arm 251 (see also Fig. 10) which is pinned to a short rock shaft 258 pivotally mounted in lugs 259 constituting a part of the column 232. The shaft 258 also carries a flipper member 26i constituting a part of the detector control 38. Flipper 26l normally rests at a slight angle to the vertical or in the position indicated in Figs. 9 and 10, this being the position when the arm 225 is hanging free and with its shoe 221 disengaged.-

This position is held by means of a Spring 262 which is associated with a. spring barrel 263 having 'sliding movement within a hollow boss 264 formed in the column 232. When such inclined position the flipperis out of the path of travel of certain parts of the detector trip Il which will be hereinafter fully described.

As soon as the beam knob 191 of a passing light weight can engages the shoe 221 and swings the arm 225, the shaft 258 is rocked in a counterclockwise direction (Figs. 9 and 10), and the flipper 26l is brought into a vertical position against the tension of spring 262. In this position it is adapted to engage the detector trip mechanism fil.

In a similar manner the short or over weight can swinging member 235 is connected with a ipper in the detector control unit 22. This arm 235 is formed with a projection 2M (Figs. 6 and 9), the end of which is connected by a link 242 to an arm 222 secured to a short horizontal rock shaft 22d which is mounted in lugs 205 formed in the column 222.`

A flipper 225 is pinned to the shaft 2M and its normal position is also at an angle to the vertical as illustrated in Fig. 9 with its associated arm 235 swinging :free and with its shoe 236 non-actuated. This inclined position of the ipper 226 is main' tained by a spring 241 which cooperates with a spring barrel 222 having sliding movement in a hollow boss 229 formed on the column 222.

When the shoe 236 is engaged and the arm 235 is swung on its rod 229l the shaft 2M is rocked sumciently in a clockwise direction to bring the flipper 225 into vertical position (Fig. 10) Aand it is then in the path of travel of thedetector trip Detector trip The detector trip mechanism it is carried on the upper end of the shaft E15 (Figs. 2, l and 9) and comprises a detector disc 21| formed with a sleeve 212 which is pinned -at 213 on the upper end of the shaft. This disc 21| is continuously rotated withthe shaft and one side passes adjacent the column 232 and in between the flippers 246, 26|. The disc 21| is formed with a number of vertically disposed bores 214 which are spaced an equal distance apart and are located adjacent its periphery.

A vertically movable trip rod 215 is carried in each of the disc bores and each rod is reduced in diameter at its top and at its bottom in stems 216 where it extends above and below the disc. Each trip rod has three vertical positions within its seat 2114. One is a central position at which the rod is always set 'if not shifted by either iiipper 246 or 26S. This position corresponds to a normal can not actuating the swinging arms 225, 235. The second is an upper position corresponding to a heavy or over weight can wherein the flipper 246 is vertical and the third is a lower position which corresponds to a light weight can and wherein the iiipper 26i is in operating position.

Each trip rod '285 is formed with three horizontally disposed grooves 211 and a spring detent unit holds the trip rod in one of its selected positions. This detent unit comprises a ball 218 which is backed up by a spring 218 coniined withina horizontal bore 28! cut in the disc 21| adjacent the vertical rod bore 214. The spring 219 forces the ball 218 into one of the grooves 211 after thetrip rod has been placed into its normal, heavy or light groove. f-

As an individual trip rod 215 approaches the detector control unit 38 it passes between an upper reset cam 285 (Figs. 6 and 9) and a lower reset cam 286, these cams each being secured to the column 232. Engagement of the stems 216 with either of the reset cams 285, 286, no matter in what position the trip`rod may be relative to the disc 21|, brings the rod into its middle or normal position. If it is already in middle posi- 4tion it passes the cams without engaging either.

Figures 6 and 10 illustrate the setting of a. trip rod 215 through the action of the heavy weight can flipper 246 which provides a cam track on which the lower stem 216 rides (as the rod 215 is moved upwardly as viewed in Fig. 6). When the trip rod passe'sbeyond the inclined track of the iiipper it is in its raised position and is held there by the spring detent 218.

In like manner a rod 21,5 may be depressed as it passes through the detector controls, but when this occurs the top flipper 26| is in vertical position and its loweinclined cam track is positioned to form a prolongation of the inclined track of the reset cam 285 so that the upper stem 216 of the trip rod is engaged and the rod is accordingly shifted into its lowermost or light can position.

The vertical position of a trip rod produces certain results which will now be considered. A collar 288 is pinned on the lower stem 216 of each trip rod 215 and it is this collar that operates certain devices located below the disc 21| and cooperatively associated with the discharging of the cans by the distributor mechanism 46, the vertical position of the collar providing for the selective operation of the discharge elements.

The devices referred to are carried on a stationary support plate 30| (Figs. 4, 9, 14 and l5) which is mounted on the sleeve |84. The shaft extends up and through this plate, the plate being formed with a boss 302 on which the moving sleeve 212 of the disc 21| rests. There are two stages of actuation connected with the selective discharging of weighed cans by the distributing mechanism 46, there being a shiftable member pivotally mounted on the plate for each" stage. A shiftable member is actuated if the collar 288 of a trip rod 215 is at the proper height or level to engage with a cam surface formed on the member.

The first of these shiftable members comprises a block 305 (Figs. 4: and 14) which is pivotally mounted on a vertical shaft 306 held in the plate 30 l, an upper bearing being formed for the shaft by a lug section 381 which extends up from the plate 3M and over the block 305. Block 365 is extended laterally in an arm 388 which projects down at its end in a lug 389.

The lug 388 is engaged by a spring barrel 3H which forms one element of a spring unit, this barrel having a loose pivotal engagement with the lug at SH2. The spring barrel Sli slides within an outer spring barrel 3i3 which is formed with a projection Sie which has a loose pivotal connection with a lug M5 projected upwardly from the plate i. 'A spring 3 i6 is confined within and between the sliding spring barrels 3i l, 3i@ and tends to force them apart. This spring unit holds the block 605 in one of its two positions, the arm 808 in swinging from one position to the other moving the spring barrel unit past the line of centers of its pivotal mountings so that the action of the spring is always eirective in holding the block after it has been positioned.

A pair of spaced posts 32|, 322 are carried by the block 305, on the side opposite to the arm 308, and extend up at different heights above the block. The post 32| is formed with upper and lower spaced projections 323, 324 which are on the outside of the post. The projection 323 is in the plane of a collar 288 of a trip rod 215 when the rod is in its raised or uppermost level, this being the level corresponding to an over weight can. The projection 324 extends in a horizontal plane corresponding to the position of a trip collar 288 when in its lowest plane, that is, corresponding to a light weight can.

The post 322 is formed with a single projection 325 which extends on the inside of the post, that is, toward the other projections 323, 324. This projection 325 is at an intermediate level'corresponding to the level of a trip collar 288 when its trip rod is in the normal can plane. The inner faces ofthe projections 323, 324, 325 are inclined as shown in Fig. 4 and accordingly when a collar 288 of a trip rod 215 moves between the posts 32|, 322 it engages one of the projections if such projection is in its path. Where such engagement occurs the block 305 is shifted on its shaft 306.

In Figs. 4 and 14 there is illustrated a collar 288 located at the middle level for a normal can coming into engagement with the normal projection 325. In Fig.'4 the disc 21| which carries the trip rods 215 moves in a clockwise direction. After engaging the projection 325 the advancing trip collar forces the post 322 outward or away from the center shaft |15 which causes the block 305 to move on its shaft 306 in a counter clockwise direction. This performs a certain result in the distributing mechanism 46 as will be hereinafter fully explained.

Devices for the second stage of actuation referred to are disposed in the further path of travel of the detector rods 215 carried around by the disc 21| and these devices comprise a second block 326 which functions in a manner similar to the block Stud. The block 32@ (Figs. i and l5) is mounted on a vertical shaft 3271 which is carried by the plate till, an upper bearing for the shaft being formed by a lug 32d projecting upwardly from the plate and extending over the block.

The block 326, like the block titte has two positions of rest, and a spring barrel unit (identical in construction and operation with the unit composed of the barrels 3l l, M3) is used to hold the block in one Ior the other of its positions. This spring barrel unit 329 is located below the block '$26 and one end is loosely pivoted in an upstanding lug 333i formed in the plate lill and its opposite end is loosely mounted in a lug projecting down from the block.y A v Block 32@ also carries a pair of yposts which project up from its upper surface and, similar to the posts 320, 322, have inward projections, vone projection 335 for the post and another projection 33t for the post 33d. The projection 335 is disposed in the lowest plane of a trip collar @tu whenthe trip rod has been depressed into its lowest position for a lightweight can. The other projection 33t is in the top plane for such a trip collar, this being the heavy or over weight can position.

it will be observed that there is no normal or middle plane position of projection for either the post or Such a normal 'weight can position is not necessary as the actuation of the discharge mechanism for normal cans has already been carried out by a shifting of the rst block Figures l and l5 illustrate a trip collar 28d which has already engaged the projection and has already shifted the block 32 in a clockwise direction (as viewed in Fig. ll) This shift of the block (326i has affected certain of the discharge elements in the distributing mechanism it so that a heavy weight can will be properly conveyed to the patch-z ing table 25 and moved onto its discharge chain (il at the proper time. This work performed by the shifting of a block tile or a bloclr 326 and the mechanism whereby an associated can is properly removed from the distributing unit il@ will now be described. l

Distributing and sorting purpose its shaft 3M, below its bearing 3&2, carries a sprocket 3M. During the travel of the can over the table 23 by the starwheel M it is guided in a circular path of travel by'a guide rail 365 which is connected to and is an integral part of a plate 341@ formed in a bracket till mounted upon and secured to the table til.

The starwheel (lll transfers a can il! into the starwheel it and the can is then retained in its path of travel by a curved guide rail tilt which is mounted upon and secured to the table 231. Starwheel Q5 is carried on the upper end of a vertical shaft 35i (Figs. i and 13) which is journaled in bearings 352,- 353 formed in the table 23 and in the frame 2l. This shaft 35i like the shaft @lll is continuously rotated and for this purpose caraoeaeeo ries a sprocket which is located, just below the bearing 35?.

'Ehe sprockets 340-, 35d are driven in unison by a chain drive (Figs. 3 and 13). The chain 35e besides passes over lother sprockets, and simultaneously operates in addition to the starwheels (ld, (l5, also a turret associated with the distributing mecha anism- (it.

The drive chain extends from the sprockets ldd over a third drive'sprocket (Figs. 2 and 3) which is mounted on the upper end of a vertical shaft 35i! journaled in a bearing formed in the frame 2l. The shaft 357i also carries a bevel gear which meshes with a similar gear titl secured to the end of the shaft It is by means of this drive sprocket 35d that the'chain is operated. i The chain 355 extends between the sprockets and thence passes over a sprocket (Figs. 3 and 13) which is carried on the lower end of a sleeve which -is a part of the turret of the distributing mechanism previously mentioned. This Sleeve rotates on a hired vertical 'shaft 365i which extends up from the frame 2l passing over the two sprochetsalso The chain after passing over theV sprocket 362 engages and operates an idler sprocket which rotates looselyon a vertical shaft 3Std held in bearings Stil, @lll formedin the table and the frame 2th From the idler sprocket .ttl the chain passes back and over the sprocket 36M as previously described.

The starwheel (l5 delivers Ithe can into one of a series 'of spaced pockets 375 (Figs. d and 13) formed in a turret The turret ill@ is formed by four horizontal spaced discs Sill, Bild, Elli), 35i

which are alljoined into a single unit on a eenn trai hub This hub rotates around the vertical shaft @tti and the lower disc' Sill is an in tegral part with the sleeve Each turret pocket 3715 is formed in the two upper discs l'll, and a can 2li when within a pocket rests' upon the third disc 3l@ and in this position is carried in the turret Sid. After the can is received within a turret pocket it is carried by the turret in a circular path of travel through half or more of a circle depending on its weight and along a guidew'all Std which is an integral part of the bracket "Sfl'll and which also connects directly with the wall Mii as best shown in. Fig.

Discharge devices are carried by the turret t'lli,

one of these being associated with each oflthe turret pockets.

A discharge device'comprises an upper ejector lever 331i which is located beneath the top disc 3TH and which is adjacent each turret pocket and a lower ejector lever 392 of the same pattern which is located beneath the second disc @lil and is in alignment with the upper lever. 'I'he two levers 39 l, 392 of each set move together and are secured to a vertical rock shaft 3533 which is journaled in bearings 39d formed in the four respective turret discs.

Each shaft 393i is frictionally held within its bearings 3M by a friction brake unit which is mounted on the lower end of the shaft and is dis- I yieldingly held in frictional engagement therewith by a spring tgl which is mounted on the g shaft 393 and which is interposed between the lower dise 38| and the brake disc body 395.

'I'he ejector levers have an inner position (Fig. 4) and an outer or discharge position. In the inner position the levers rest clear of the turret pocket but in engagement with a can 21 within its turret pocket. In the outer or discharge position of the ejector levers, they extend beyond the turret disc walls and discharge movement is brought about by a shifting of the shaft 393. When such a shifting takes place depends upon the weight of the can in the turretpocket and this in turn relates back to the operation of the blocks 305, 326 in the detector disc unit 4|.

Each shaft 393 carries an .arm 40| (Figs. 4 and 13) which is ,secured to its upper end above the top disc 311. Each arm 40| carries a pin 402 on which is rotatably mounted a roller 403. It is the engagement of the roller 403 of each arm 40| which effects a shifting of the shaft 393.

Two movable cam units are provided, one of these units being connected with the block 305 and the other with the block 326. Each cam unit has two positions, one a non-actuating position where the cam element is held above the path of travel of the roller 403 on an arm 40|, the other in the path of travel of such a roller. The shifting of the block 305 or block 326 results in positioning the associated cam unit for engagement with a roller 403advancing to that position or out of engagement. This will be better understood by reference to Figs. 4 and 13, the operation of the normal cam unit being first considered.

The stationary shaft 365 carries at its upper end a cam sleeve 405 on which the cam units referred to are hingedly supported. This cam sleeve is formed with a pair of laterally extended lugs 406 which support a short horizontal shaft 401 on which a cam block 403 is mounted. This block has a cam surface 409 formed on its outer side and constitutes a normal cam unit which has an upper or raised position as illustrated in Fig. 13

and a lowered position when it is substantially horizontal.

When.in the raised position it is out of the path of travel of a roller 403 but when in lowered position its cam surface 409 is in the path of and is engaged by the roller of the next adjacent advancing arm 40|. Engagement between the roller and the cam surface results in a turning of the shaft 393 and in an outward swing movement of the ejector levers 39|, 392. This outward movement takes place as the`ca1n within an associated turret pocket is adjacent the chain and near the discharge or patching table. The moving ejector levers discharge the can 21' from the turret pocket an'd place it upon the conveyor chain 28. Each can that is so positioned on the conveyor 28 is within the normal weight range inasmuch as the actuation of the shaft 393 of the ejector levers takes place at this position only when the cam block 408 has been depressed by the shifting cf the block 305 in a counter clockwise direction (Fig. 4) as has already `been explained, a guide rail 4|4 mounted on the table 25 assisting in holding the cans on the chain 28. The connection between the block 305 and the cam block 408-is made in this manner.

The cam block 408 carries a pin 4| 5 which provides a pivotal connection for an adjustable connecting rod M5 which is pivotally connected at its upper end to an arm of a bell crank lever 4|1.

Lever 4|1 has pivotal movement on a pin 4|8 carried in lugs 4|9 formed in the sleeve 405. The opposite end of the bell crank lever 4 1 is pivotally connected to an adjustable connecting rod 42| which is pivotally connected at 422 to the shift block 305.

This shifting of the cam block 408 into actuating position is accomplished when a collar 288 rides against the projection 325 of the post 322 and shifts the block 305 from the position i1- lustrated in Fig. 4 into its other position. The spring barrel unit 3|I, 3|3 holds the block 305 in its shifted position and therefore the cam block 408 remains in its lowered position as long as normal cans follow.

As long as the cam block is down each roller 403 coming into engagement with its cam surface 409 is shifted and a can within the turret pocket is' ejected onto the discharge section of the chain 28. The largest percentage of cans passing through a weighing machine, providing the filling machine is properly adjusted, is within the normal range and this holding provision prevents unnecessary and extra shifting of the trip controlled devices, etc., greatly wear and tear on the machine.

As soon, however, as a light or a heavy weight can sets its associated trip rods 215 to position its collar 288 for actuation of the projection 323 or the projection 324 of the post 32|, shifting of the block 305 takes place. Such a. shifting action lifts the cam block out of its operating position (Fig. 13) and therefore the can, within the turret pocket then passing tangent to the chain 28, will remain within its pocket and will later be discharged as a heavy can onto the chain 41 or as a light can onto the chain 48. The discharge of a. heavy can will next be considered.

A second cam block 425 (Figs. 4 and 13) is provided and like the block 408 is pivotally mounted within the lugs 406 of the sleeve 405. This cam block has a cam surface 428 which is brought down into the path of travel of a roller 403 when the cam block moves into horizontal position, this position being shown in Figs. 4 and 13.

Upon engagement of the next advancng roller 403 with the cam 426 the shaft 393 is shifted and A its associated ejector levers 39|, 392 are moved to throw out the can from the turret pocket. This only takes place when the can is a heavy can, that is, one in excess of the normal weight limit. All heavy cans are moved onto the discharge chain 41 of the patching table 25 passing at such time between guide rails 421, 428, both carried on the patching table, the former providing a separation between the normal can lane on chain 28 and the heavy can laneon chain 41.

The lowering of the cam block 425 into actuating or discharge position is effected by a shifting of the block 326 in a clockwise direction, as illustrated in Fig. 4. The connection between the cam block 425 and the arm 326 is made in a similar manner to the connection between the cam' block 408 and the block 305. f

The cam block 425 is pivotally connected to an adjustable connecting link 43| which is pivotally connected to one arm of a bell crank lever 432 pivoted on a pin 433 carried in lugs 434 formed in the. sleeve 405. The opposite arm of the bell crank lever 432 is connected to an adjustable connecting rod 435 which is also pivotally connected at 436 to the block 326.

Lowering of the cam block 425 for effecting a discharge of a heavy can is brought about when reducing the the projection 33t of the post 331i is engaged and the block 326 is shifted. The spring barrel unit 329 holds the shifted block 326 in that position until a subsequent light can sets one of the trip rods 2715 to bring its collar 283 into engagement with the projection 335 of its post 333 and thus change the position.

It will be understood that where normal cans follow the heavy can which positioned the cam block i525, normal can ejection will take place in the usual way and when the emptied pockets of the turret come into position adjacent the cam block $25 their ejector levers 39E, 392 will again operate but this is an idle movement the can for that pocket having already been discharged.

In the'event of a light can discharge both the cam blocks m3, 325 are rais'ed4 and out of actuating position so that the ejector levers 3M, 392 will not be moved until the can has passed by the discharge positions for the chains 23 and dill. Such a light weight can is ejected on the chain it and is thence conveyed between the guide rail t28 and a parallel rail @3l also mounted on the patching table 25. This discharge of a light weight can is brought about by cooperation'of a stationary cam surface llll and an arm roller M93 and this cam surface is formed in a cam plate M2, which is an integral part of and which extends out from the sleeve tilt. t

After a light can has been ejected from the turret pocket by engagement of its (associated roller dm3 with the cam surface dll l the'roller is brought into the mouth of a double walled cam Mt which is formed by depending cam walls Md, M5 projected from the cam plate M2. 'Ihese walls Mil, M5 gradually move each arm Ml so that each shaft 393 is brought back into its normal position with the ejector levers 39H, 392 contained within the turret discs 3W, Slt and out of the Way of an vincoming can.

` It'is thought that the invention and many of its attendant advantages will be understood from the foregoing description, and it will be apparent that various changes may be made in the form, construction and arrangement of the parts without departing from the spirit and scope of the l invention or sacrificing all of its material ad and in accordance with the weight of'the canY then in said unit for selectively operating the said discharge mechanism so that the discharge of cans is accompanied by a segregation into groups of the same weight range.

2. In a can weighing machine, the combination yof an endless conveyor, scale units carried by said conveyor and adapted to receive and -weigh cans, a discharge table for receiving said cans after weighing, a light, a heavy and a normal can weight conveyor located on said discharge table, means actuated by the said scale unit and selectively determined by its weighing position at the time of weighing and in accordance with the weight of the can then in said unit for selectively placing the can in the proper aoeaaoo 3. In a can weighing machine, the combination ofA an endless conveyor, scale units carried by said conveyor and adapted to receive and weigh cans, a can mold associated with each of a said scale unit and adapted to hold a can of predetermined diameter in proper position for weighing, .said mold being removable and interchangeable to adapt, the machine for the weighing of cans of a dierent diameter, a revoluble vturret for receiving the weighed cans from said scale units, and discharge mechanism carried by said turret for selectively removing at spaced locations in the path of said turret, cans of light, heavy and normal weights.

Il. In al can weighing machine, the combination of an endless conveyor, scale units carried by said conveyor and adapted to receive and weigh cans, a can mold associated with each of a said scale unit and adapted to hold a can of predetermined diameter in proper position forv weighing, said mold being adjustable to adapt the machinel for the weighing of cans of a different diameter, a revoluble turret for receiving the weighed cans, and means cooperating with said turret and actuated in accordance with the weights of the individual cans as determined by the scale' unit containing the same for discharging the weighed cans from said turret and segregating the weighed cans in a suitable place of deposit.

5. A scale unit for a can weighing machine comprising, in combination, a support bracket, a balance beam pivotally mounted on said bracket, a scale pan pivotallyv connected with one end of said beam and having a mold adjustable for various can sizes for centering a can on said scale panso that the center of gravity of the' suspended weight of can and scale pan falls in a line directly under the point of connection between the said scale pan and said' beam, means associated with said beam for balancing a normal weight can in the said can mold of said scale pan, and means carried by said scale pan and disposed above said balance beam for supporting scale weights to compensate for cans of less than the maximum normal weight for which the scale unit is adjusted. p

6. A scale unit for a can weighing ymachine comprising, in combination, a support bracket,

.a balance beam pivotally mounted on said bracke et, a scale pan pivotally connected with one end of said beam and having a mold adjustable for various can sizes for centering a can on said scale pan so that the center of gravity of the suspended weight of can and scale pan falls in a line directly under the point of connection between the said scale pan and said beam, a counterweight having a shiftable center of gravity mounted above the said balance beam and secured on the opposite side of its pivotal mounting from said scale pan for eifecting the weighing of a can in said scale pan and means carried by said scale pan and disposed above said balance beam for supporting scale weights to compensate for cans of less than the maximum normal weight for which the scale unit is adjusted a balance beam pivotally mounted on said bracket, a scale pan pivotally connected with one end f of said beam and having a can mold for centering a can on said scale pan so that the center of gravity of the suspended weight of can and scale pan falls in a line directly under the point of connection between the said scale pan and said beam, means associated with said beam for balancing a normal weight can in the said can mold of said scale pan, and a vertically disposed weight holder carried by said scale pan above said beam by means of which supplemental weights are held to adapt the said scale unit for the weighting of a different normal Weight can. U

8. A scale unit for a can weighing machine cornprising, in combination, a support bracket, a balance beam pivotally mounted on said bracket, a scale pan pivotally connected with one end of said beam and adapted to receive a can for weighing, a counterweight mounted on the other end of said beam for balancing a normal weight can in said scale pan, and means disposed above said beam in vertical alignment with said scale pan for maintaining constant the total suspended weight of said scale pan and can while adapting the unit for weighing cans having a different normal weight range.

9. In a can weighing machine, the combination of an endless conveyor arranged to follow a straight path and an arcuate path, scale units including scale pans carried by said conveyor and adapted to receive and weigh cans, a discharge table for receiving said cans after weighing, said table having a light, a heavy and a normal can weight section, a distributing mechanism for receiving cans after they are weighed by said scale units and for discharging them on said discharge table, and a detector member actuated in accordance with the weight of a can in a said scale unit, and operating through said distributing mechanism for-selectively segregating the cans that are f light, heavy and normaly weights on their said corresponding discharge table sections.

l0. In a can weighing machine, the combination of an endless conveyor arranged to follow a straight path and an arcuate path, scale units including scale pans carried by said conveyor and adapted to receive and weigh cans, a discharge table for receiving said cans after weighing, said table having a light, a heavy and a normal can weight section, a distributing mechanism for receiving cans after they are weighed by said scale units and for discharging them on said discharge table, a detector trip element set, in accordance with the weight of a can in a said scale unit, into one of three positions corresponding to the said discharge table sections, and means actuated by said trip element and operating through said distributing mechanism for segregating the cans as dischargedv so that light, heavy and normal weight cans are selectively grouped on said table sections.

11. In a can weighing machine, the combination of an endless conveyor arranged to follow a straight path and an arc'uate path, scale units including scale pans carried by said conveyor and adapted to receive and weigh cans, a discharge table for receiving said cans after weighing, said table having a light, a heavy and a normal can weight section, a distributing mechanism for receiving cans after they are weighed by said scale units and for discharging them on said discharge table, a detector trip element set, in accordance with the weight of a can in a said scale unit, into one of three positions corresponding to the said discharge table sections, a normal can shift member connected with said distributing mechanism and movable by said trip element when set in its normal can position for discharging the said normal can into its discharge table section, and a second or heavy weight can shift member also connected with said distributing mechanism and movable by ,said trip element when set in its heavy can position for discharging the said heavy can into its discharge table section.

12. In a can weighing machine, the combination of an endless conveyor arranged to follow a straight path and an arcuate path, scale units including scale pans carried by said conveyor and adapted to receive and weigh cans as light, heavy and normal weight, a discharge table having a light, heavy and normal weight can receiving section for receiving said weighed cans, means actuated in accordance with the weights of the individual cans as determined by their associated scale units for discharging and segregating by weight the weighed cans upon said table sections,

and a plurality of interlocked balance gates for controlling the movement of a said scale unit when weighing an overweight can to prevent violent weighing action, said gates being movable in proportion to the amount of overweight in the can. i

13. In a can weighing machine, the combination of an endless conveyor, scale units carried by said conveyor and adapted to receive and weigh cans, a revolublev turret for receiving said cans after weighing, a discharge table divided into a light, a heavy and a normal can weight section, and means carried by said turret for selectively distributing all cans after weighing from said turret into the said table sections, the selection of a discharge table section by said distributing means being made in accordance with the. weighing position of a said scale unit which position is in turn determined by the individual Weight of the can.

14. In a can weighing machine, the combination of an endless conveyor, scale units each including a scale beam carried by said conveyor and adapted to receive and weigh cans, means for holding said scale units against Vertical movement except when weighing, a discharge table for receiving said weighed cans, detector mechanism disposed in the path of and operable by said scale beam in accordance with the Weights of individual cans carried by the scale units, and means actuated by said detector mechanism for discharging and segregating by weight weighed cans upon -said table.

15. In a can weighing machine, the combination of an endless conveyor, scale units each including a scale beam carried by said conveyor and adapted to receive and weigh cans, feeding devices for bringing cans into the machine and for positioning an individual can into a said scale unit, means for holding said Vscale units against vertical movement except when weighing, a discharge table for receiving said weighed cans, detector mechanism disposed in the path of and operable by said scale beam in accordance with the weights of individual cans carried by the. scale units, and means actuated by said detector mechanism for discharging and segregating by weight the weighed cans upon said table.

16. In a can weighing machine, the combination of an endless conveyor, scale units each in cluding a scale beam carried by said conveyor and adapted to receive and Weigh cans, feeding devices for bringing cans into the machine on a predetermined level and for positioningan individual can into a said scale unit at the same level, means for holding said scale units against vertical movement and at said predetermined level except when weighing, a discharge table located at said level for receiving said weighed cans, detector mechanism disposed in the path or" and operable by said scale beam in accord'- ance with the weights of said individual cans carried by the scale units, and means actuated by said detector mechanism for discharging and segregating by weight the weighed cans upon said table.

l'l. In a can weighing machine, the combina? tion of an endless conveyorso arranged as to folsaid detector member in accordance with the can'weight, a discharge table for receiving said weighed cans, and means actuated by said set element of the detector member for discharging and segregating by weight the weighed cans upon said table.' 18. In a can weighing machine, the combination oi anendless conveyor, scale units each includinga scale beam carriedby said conveyor and adapted to receive and weigh cans, a .discharge table for receiving said cans after weighing, a light, a heavy and a normal can weight conveyor located on said discharge table, detector mechanism disposed in the path of and operable' by said scale beam in accordance with the weights of individual cans carried by the scale units, and means actuated by said detector mechanism for selectively placing the can in the, properlight, heavy or normal can weight conveyor as it is brought onto the said discharge table;k

.19. lin a can weighing machine, the combination of a plurality of scale units each including/a scale beam adapted to receive and weigh cans, means 4for pivotally connecting adjacent scale unitsto provide an endless conveyor so arranged kasta follow an arcuate Ipath and a straight path,

actuating means for moving said conveyor to carry each scale unit through a weighing station, detector mechanism disposed in the path ci and operable by a said scale beam inv accordance with the weights of individual cans carried by the scale unit,` and means actuated by said detector. mechanism in accordance with the weighing position of a said scale unit in said weighing station ltor discharging each weighed can in its proper weightclass, said discharge means operating to discharge each weighed can during the travel thereof along the arcuate path of said endless conveyor., y

".V All/I ROSS SMTH. 

